Getting Started

Sections:

Welcome to College of DuPage!

We welcome your interest in College of DuPage and encourage you to become part of our remarkable community of people. All of us at here, from our admissions staff through to our faculty, want to make your academic experience at the college fulfilling, successful and fun!

Getting to Know Us

College of DuPage is the second largest single-campus college outside of California, so there's a lot to find out about. This website covers most everything you need to know about our programs, our people, and the application and registration process. Even though you may have found the answers to your questions online, we encourage you to schedule an appointment and visit our campus in person. You'll be amazed at what we've got going on and an admissions representative can answer any questions you may have, from financial aid concerns to involvement in student clubs and organizations.

Before You Begin

College of DuPage maintains an open enrollment policy. To attend, you must be ONE of the following:

18 years of age
A high school graduate
Earned your GED

If you are under the age of 18, you may be considered as an Early Admission Student. In addition, COD offers a variety Continuing Education and non-credit courses for students of all ages, from youths to seniors.

Next Steps

If you know what type of student you are and are ready to begin the admission process, simply click on the "Application Procedures" link and fill out the online application. It's that easy. If you would like to speak with someone in person, one of our Admissions representatives will be glad to assist you in answering questions you may have about the admissions and registration process.

Once you are ready to get started, just follow the steps below:

1. Personalize this site!
Once in the application, you can personalize this site. Tell us a little about yourself and your interests, and we'll show you what we have to offer.

2. Visit the campus
Get answers to your questions about COD from an admission specialist.

Schedule a visit

3. Apply!
Submit an Admission form online. If you've already personalized this site, you're well on your way to starting the process!

4. Take any required placement tests
Tests in reading (comprehension), writing (sentence structure and grammar) and/or math must be completed prior to registering for classes.

Visit The Testing Center.

5. Seek New Student Advising
Advising can provide a variety of services and can help you choose your first term classes.

Go to the New Student Information page.

6. Verify prerequisites
If you've taken the prerequisite course at another college of university, contact the Records Office to review options for submitting the necessary proof. Proof of Prerequisite page

7. Register for your classes
You will receive a letter approximately two weeks prior to the start of new student registration indicating the earliest date and time you'll be eligible to register for classes. This is based upon when College of DuPage receives your Admission Form.